tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7653473369818221222018-03-05T23:12:36.831-06:00Little House on the HorizonKaty Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.comBlogger373125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-36284016605840596862017-02-08T06:00:00.000-06:002017-02-08T06:00:09.603-06:00What is Showmanship?<span style="font-family: Arial;">I find myself constantly trying to find the right definition of showmanship when it pertains to livestock. The <a href="http://www.formulaofchampions.com/pages/beef-cattle/showmanship/" target="_blank">Formula of Champions</a> site has a really good description. It's basic, doesn't go into all of the details, or what if's of a show ring, but a good overall description.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">This year I found myself disappointed in the showmanship skills of my kids and those that I am working with. What have&nbsp;I done wrong? There is so much room for improvement. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">First and foremost, we all know that kids get tired of mom or dad always harping on them, sometimes it's different coming from someone else. Second is time, when you have busy kids you have to make the time for them to practice over and over until it is natural. Third, you have to review the what if's and how to adapt or correct them. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">We all know that showmanship matters in every single class, not just in the showmanship division. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">Showmanship is...</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">-presenting your animal to the best of it's abilities, showing the strengths more than the weaknesses</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">-knowing when you are getting covered up or hidden by another exhibitor</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">-understanding the flow of the ring and how classes are being set up</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">-being prepared for the unexpected placing change or to walk an extra time</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">As our daughter begins her first official year showing and the other kids need a little more experience, I'm also in the business of helping newbies, so I better get my act together. Between looking up video examples, and practicing, my mission is to&nbsp;do better at demonstrating instead of telling. Instead of everyone having a fresh calf on the end of the halter and me telling them what to do, I should be demonstrating what I'm saying and how to avoid some of the what if's of a showring. For newbies at livestock showmanship, check out <a href="http://www.formulaofchampions.com/pages/beef-cattle/showmanship/" target="_blank">Formula of Champions</a>!!</span>Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-16387354513216316542017-02-06T10:19:00.000-06:002017-02-06T10:19:00.078-06:00The Cows You Root For... <br /><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yesterday I found myself rooting for a few cows in our herd. I think this is pretty common among serious cattle raisers. Here are a few examples.</span></div><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br /><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your last show heifer…every time you see her you beg her to please be bred, please throw one more calf, and could it act just like she did in the champion drive. Because let’s face it, if she isn’t bred she’ll take a trip to the packer or the sale barn.</span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br /><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That second-calf cow that threw an incredible calf and struggled to make it five months to weaning time…please be bred. It wasn’t your fault, you were a heifer and we were pouring feed to you…please be bred.</span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br /><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The cow that is always as big around as a truck. Tag #10 I know you carry a twin gene, (GG – she’s out of orphan Annie) but please just have a healthy calf, and if it’s twins, please be able to raise them. My spring schedule does not include bottle feeding a calf.</span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br /><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The family favorite cow that was your daughter’s practice show heifer. Dear Snowball can you please have calves with your same personality. I could really use one gentle heifer every year that doesn’t mind learning tricks, getting covered in a towel when it’s snowing, practicing haltering and loading in a trailer,&nbsp;and learning to chase a girl with cubes in her pocket.</span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br /><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To the cow that only has bull calves. Girl you are doing a great job, but we paid for your great bloodlines so could you pretty please throw one heifer in your lifetime. </span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br /><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The cow that is on the fence, she goes in the sale pen and then she goes back out with the herd. Cow if you can hold out a few more weeks…maybe Ryan won’t have time to haul you to the sale barn and you can have one more calf here.</span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br /><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You root for cows because you need a calf out of each and every one of them. And then you root a little harder for the ones that are special, have potential or meet a specific need. </span></div><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The kids and I name the special calves, Ryan calls them by the ear tag number. In the end as long as each one contributes to your herd in as breeding stock or for money to pay the feed bill, you are successful. </span></div>Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-25024347309176560602017-01-24T06:00:00.000-06:002017-01-24T06:00:17.814-06:00Living in the Dark<span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last weekend our electricity went out when the fabulous winter storm Jupiter hit the Texas Panhandle. Fortunately for us girls, and unfortunately for the guys...Tana and I were already in Ft. Worth for the Stock Show. We headed out before the ice storm to get set up and Tate's heifer adjusted to civilization. To say it has been a challenge would be an understatement. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We still don't have power...and no I have not called the power company. As you drive into town there are still power poles on the ground. What would be the point of me calling to ask? Living the dark it not as big of an adjustment for us as most people. We spend a lot of time outside. And the generator that is hooked up does the job well enough. Enough being that you have to pick and choose what you turn on at the same time, no washing dishes and doing laundry at the same time! It will be nice to have full power back on, but living in the dark makes you appreciate life. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This has also given me the opportunity to reflect on times we ask for questions and demand answers, knowing the other end can't give us the result we want. Then don't make that phone call. Until all the power poles are back up, there is no reason for me to call and pester an overwhelmed electric company on when MY power is going to be back on. They have much bigger projects and more important customers that can't live in the dark to take care of.</span> Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-81881998496457562082017-01-23T11:24:00.000-06:002017-01-23T11:24:18.275-06:00Control, Alt, Delete....<span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;">There are times in life when it is important to reset. Pushing the control, alt, delete buttons. Regrouping mentally and physically. Finding your way. Setting new hopes, dreams and goals. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;">I needed the last year and probably most of this year to find my way. I was never lost, but never knew my way. Full of ideas and dreams, and even a few written plans, but never a clear path. It's been a rough year on so many levels. And just when you look in the mirror and tell yourself it will get better, it really doesn't. I would tell myself if we could get through this project, or these three months of changes, it would be&nbsp;sailing. But in all reality&nbsp;something else pops up and you continue on the crazy whirlwind of life. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;">What's happened in the last year - I learned to homeschool, then I took a new job. Ryan's company sold and he has a new employer. We jumped off big and have nine head in the show pen. The kids are a year older, wiser and busier. Ryan and I are one year older, our marriage has survived another year and we get grouchier on occasion! Another year went by that we didn't accomplish getting any closer to our hopes and dreams. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;">I have a quote on a piece of wood in our bedroom - </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;"><strong>Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass.</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;">Usually this ends in...it's about dancing in rain. Instead I look at is as<strong>....it's getting a plan to weather the storm</strong>. I've had to tell myself to pull myself together this year, pull us all together. Get over the storm, get a plan, and make this year count as one step closer to our hopes and dreams. (On another note, we are at day 8 of no power at home!)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;">This&nbsp;outlook on life is probably the only reason I was able to put a smile on my face in the Ft. Worth Open Show with a heifer literally facing the opposite direction. She wasn't cooperating with my plan, but it was still one step closer to our hopes and dreams.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;">Look forward to blogging more, sharing a laugh, a cry and a serious thought. Lots of plans for 2017!</span>Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-83736884116788591832016-01-12T20:12:00.005-06:002016-01-12T20:12:51.036-06:00Christmas in the CountryI've been involved in several secret gift exchanges, but non like Christmas in the Country. The excitement of shopping for the gift receiver and getting your own package from the post office is like none other. Why you may ask...because these are like-minded, agricultural related people that you have been stalking for weeks!<br /><br />First, I was to send a gift to Robyn Goddard of South Dakota. I spent a few weeks looking through her blog, <a href="http://theranchwifechronicles.com/christmas-in-the-country-reveal-2/" target="_blank">The Ranch Wife Chronicles</a>, and learning more about her. What I found was that we are the same age, doing the same job, in very similar lifestyles. We have similar beliefs and could probably throw a great BBQ and have a lot of fun, laughter and serious conversations. Do I want to make a quick trip to South Dakota, absolutely!<br /><br />Second, I was on the receiving end of a great surprise. I received a box from Mexico, Missouri. At first I couldn't pinpoint why that would even seem familiar, but before I even opened the box I knew it came from someone that GOT me! Boy was I surprised to see Christmas in the Country from <a href="https://farmlivinismylife.wordpress.com/2016/01/06/christmas-in-the-country-3/" target="_blank">Melinda Bastian</a>. Like us the Bastian's raise cattle, and especially show cattle. That is a whole different breed than the people who just run cattle on wide open spaces. This family understands the planning, generations, time and long hours of raising a calf into a cow that produces something that will spend a lot of it's life in a barn. The barn hours are long but so rewarding! <br /><br />Here is a picture of my Christmas package:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q3Ayr5a3mUQ/VpWxY7lHwCI/AAAAAAAABF4/F7SCEzbBmZ0/s1600/MB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q3Ayr5a3mUQ/VpWxY7lHwCI/AAAAAAAABF4/F7SCEzbBmZ0/s320/MB.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />First&nbsp;- notice the family picture. That was something I included with my package because I wanted someone to put a face with names immediately.&nbsp;There is also a cookbooks, something I sent as well. It's amazing how much this group of women have in common. I also received a few Christmas ornaments with show calves and a show mom necklace that I can't wait to wear! There is also a hand stitched western piece that I have on a special side table. The thoughtfulness and excitement is overwhelming. The box also had candy canes...that my daughter stole! <br /><br />The thing that inspired me the most is that Melinda is a mentor. She's a mother, a wife and involved in the show cattle business. I hope to be able to communicate and ask questions as she's been in situations that I will be in soon. <br /><br />Thank you to the Christmas in the Country hostesses, Jamie (<a href="http://unchartedrhoade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" title="http://unchartedrhoade.blogspot.com/">This Uncharted Rhoade</a>), Laurie (<a href="http://countrylinked.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" title="http://countrylinked.wordpress.com/">COUNTRY LINKed</a>), Lara&nbsp;(<a href="http://www.myothermoreexcitingself.com/">My Other More Exciting Self</a>) and&nbsp;Kirby (<a href="http://15009farmhouse.blogspot.com/">15009 Farmhouse</a>).&nbsp;&nbsp;I am already looking forward to next year! Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-3537580680058054122016-01-01T09:41:00.002-06:002016-01-01T09:41:56.913-06:00Reflecting and Looking Forward <br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I sit here on New Year’s Eve and reflect on 2015, I don’t even know where to start. By all means it was a blessed year. Our kids are growing up and we accomplished many goals set forth a year ago. It hasn’t been an easy year by far. There were a lot of decisions made, some easy, some hard, but all in all, we wouldn’t take back where we are now. Not one second would I look back and wish I had made a different decision. A week ago I may not have said the same thing. But as I am half way through Jen Hatmaker’s book, <em>For the Love</em>, I have finally, at thirty-one years old, realized that I do have to run my race. I still have no idea what that race is and some day it will all come together. But without the hard work and hard decisions this year, we wouldn’t be where we are now. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A few things I learned in 2015:<o:p></o:p></span><br /> <span style="font-family: Calibri;">-We can weather any storm with a strong marriage. <o:p></o:p></span><br /> <span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Leftovers can be re-invented a million times if you already used your grocery budget for the month.<o:p></o:p></span><br /> <span style="font-family: Calibri;">-You can leave the grocery store with $20 worth of goods if you only take in $20.<o:p></o:p></span><br /> <span style="font-family: Calibri;">-People will hang up on you, not return phone calls and dust you aside…but that will bite them back in 2016. So I’ve learned to return every phone call, at least listen to every side and remember you make enemies and friends in the same amount of time. It is a lot easier to call a friend for help in the future than an enemy you made a year ago.<o:p></o:p></span><br /> <span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Delete facebook friends and add blogs that you follow. This is a work in progress. As much as I enjoy following people around in the daily lives on facebook, that is a complete waste of my time, they don’t contribute one bit to my well-being. I’d much rather find a circle of like-minded bloggers to read about and stay in touch with that not only provide educational material, but also uplifting and genuine posts that make an impact on me and my family.<o:p></o:p></span><br /> <br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of my Christmas presents was an Erin Condren calendar. While I’ve looked at this a million times I would have not spent that much money on a calendar in my lifetime. BUT, I can’t tell you the difference this calendar has already made on my 2016. While I love technology, I can throw a calendar in my purse, in the feed truck and on trips and always know what’s going to happen next. I’ve filled in a book list for the year, my New Year’s Resolutions, financial calendar and daily activities for the next month. I figured I needed one month to learn how to use the calendar and what I may want to add to it for the rest of the year. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Last thought – If you are waiting until January 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup>to get your year in order…you are already a day behind. <o:p></o:p></span><br /> Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-45476984429264316752015-12-18T06:53:00.001-06:002015-12-18T06:53:07.458-06:00Enjoy the Little ThingsWe have all heard the old saying that you have to stop and enjoy the little things. But how do you know what those little things are? <br /><br />With a few changes in our lives, I've been able to spend a lot more time at home, a lot more time with our daughter, and of course the cows. I've been able to stop and enjoy the little things and remind myself daily that now is the time to play catchup and enjoy Tana before she grows up much more. It is also amazing to see calves grow and change daily. Pictures like these are examples of us enjoying the little things in life. <br /><br />We stopped to enjoy this view on my Grandparents' place. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRkG5DPV4AI/VnP_bv3NHxI/AAAAAAAABDg/uEPTSJuuhYI/s1600/20150626_110622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRkG5DPV4AI/VnP_bv3NHxI/AAAAAAAABDg/uEPTSJuuhYI/s320/20150626_110622.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We stopped to play with Bunk. (Playing catchup here, but this was a very special moment. Tana was bit by a dog this summer and we didn't know how she would interact with our own dogs. Bunk is a special dog and of course their friendship picked up where it left off. It was such a joy to know that Tana still cared for her. While we are all more conscience of the dogs of others Tana truly loves animals and wants to either fix them or find them all homes.)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FyD3l5FhWDA/VnP_bpF6p-I/AAAAAAAABDc/DnMLCl2bcPU/s1600/20150704_103317%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FyD3l5FhWDA/VnP_bpF6p-I/AAAAAAAABDc/DnMLCl2bcPU/s320/20150704_103317%257E2.jpg" width="292" /></a></div><br />We stopped our crazy lives...and took a vacation! I couldn't pass up on this elevator in Hutchinson, Kansas. The kids cooperated and let me take all the pictures I wanted. First 'real' vacation and we didn't haul a trailer! Longer post in the future! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q1mqHFTzEJc/VnP_bMBb1qI/AAAAAAAABDY/K3CP21yRB2M/s1600/20150729_162136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q1mqHFTzEJc/VnP_bMBb1qI/AAAAAAAABDY/K3CP21yRB2M/s320/20150729_162136.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><br />We stopped to work cattle, and even though it is 'work' we love every minute of it. Every day, every muddy halter, every calf that doesn't cooperate, every set of chores in the snow and ice....loving every minute to see how it pays off.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FaXIwG8WHVo/VnP_coSiBnI/AAAAAAAABD0/AzDBJJrlAG4/s1600/20151010_115421%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FaXIwG8WHVo/VnP_coSiBnI/AAAAAAAABD0/AzDBJJrlAG4/s320/20151010_115421%257E2.jpg" width="197" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We stopped for camp. I can't wait to write an entire post about KICK Camp and how we all enjoyed it! Don't all kids go to camp and sleep in a teepee?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b9xqIB-PSxc/VnQAzoBpiRI/AAAAAAAABEM/hURL21JbJaE/s1600/20150625_103015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b9xqIB-PSxc/VnQAzoBpiRI/AAAAAAAABEM/hURL21JbJaE/s320/20150625_103015.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div>Stop to enjoy the little things. Enjoy the days that are successful, the life learning moments, the hard times and the good times. Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-11114484172787104912015-10-19T10:11:00.000-05:002015-10-19T10:11:17.959-05:00The Smallest Decisions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've been waking much earlier than usual, maybe even hours before my alarm even goes off. We have lots of projects going on and have had lots of changes in our daily lives. I find the early morning hours as time to catch up, do an extra load of laundry, register calves, and prepare for the day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today I am reminded of this quote:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div class="copy-paste-block" id="qt_183404" style="text-align: center;"><em>Sometimes it's the smallest decisions that can change your life forever.</em></div><div class="bq_fq_a" style="text-align: center;"><em> Keri Russell</em> </div><div class="copy-paste-block"><span><br />In the future I'll post more about some of the changes that have been happening, but for now another project! </span></div><div class="copy-paste-block"><span></span>&nbsp;</div><div class="copy-paste-block"><span>If we could go back from the beginning and count how many holes, loads of concrete, posts, clips, rolls of wire, pairs of gloves, blisters, pliers, hours, and the smallest decisions&nbsp;that have gone into building our ranch, it would be a story to tell. For now, we are counting down the projects to finish. All the while we know there may be new projects in the future!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">﻿</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo7YPBd6fu4/ViUEU9HUlpI/AAAAAAAABAA/lEUaOmth4-8/s1600/20150912_160329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo7YPBd6fu4/ViUEU9HUlpI/AAAAAAAABAA/lEUaOmth4-8/s320/20150912_160329.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KTgNOVujdTA/ViUEVbNZB4I/AAAAAAAABAI/ASOxInznHDY/s1600/20150912_160338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KTgNOVujdTA/ViUEVbNZB4I/AAAAAAAABAI/ASOxInznHDY/s320/20150912_160338.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />After the posts were set we neatly lined it with panels, chopped the tall pieces off and are waiting to have gates measured and put up. This pen has a row of feed bunks and we're excited to have an extra place to sort cattle this winter. We tend to micromanage in the winter, but with cows beginning to calve in February...it's cold, the water is frozen, there is hay to put out, and we check the cows often to see who will calve next. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fnT0W_zNI9Y/ViUEaB1_joI/AAAAAAAABAY/gsqGlIEgg_s/s1600/20150912_184926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fnT0W_zNI9Y/ViUEaB1_joI/AAAAAAAABAY/gsqGlIEgg_s/s320/20150912_184926.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Of course you have to take a break during every project. Ryan was target practicing! ﻿</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0N5NaGmqkWs/ViUEVcJbNgI/AAAAAAAABAQ/BDK2HDtu3i8/s1600/20150912_162454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0N5NaGmqkWs/ViUEVcJbNgI/AAAAAAAABAQ/BDK2HDtu3i8/s320/20150912_162454.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />Here is to an awesome Monday, a great week, the downhill side of October and preparing for a very busy time of year! Don't forget that the small decisions make just as big of an impact as the big ones. Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-73761764084747299382015-09-13T11:23:00.002-05:002015-09-13T11:23:45.987-05:00Projects Around the RanchEach year we set a list of goals for the year, items that we need, and projects to complete. Many of these we plan to do in the summer and then sometimes it's just too hot to get them all accomplished. Right now the weather is beautiful and it is allowing us to finish up some outdoor projects....but we must begin the annual preparation for winter. <br /><br />First - our house is finally complete. We have finished the concrete work out front, planted more grass, and had more caliche delivered. Now I'm just waiting for mums to come out so that I can fill a few flower pots!<br /><br />Next - we have been digging holes, setting posts and finishing up a few pens that we've put off for other projects. Each of these pens will be important this winter. We're a little concerned about the El Nino weather pattern and the possible snow/ice that will come along. This makes us prepare well ahead of time. We'll rotate and sort cows depending on how they are bred, when they are due to calve and which ones will require close watch. We'll also need a good space for the show heifers, bred heifers and the growing horse herd that we have this fall. That will be another blog post later! <br /><br />Another item finished up - yesterday we finished up breeding our fall set. Ten heifers bred and raised by use that we kept as replacement heifers. The commercial heifers were bred to high percentage Maine bulls and the Angus were bred back to Angus. We're very excited to see these calves in June 2016.&nbsp;We bred, calve, wean and rotate year round. It's not the way everyone does it, but it keeps a variety of ages of show heifers born year round. <br /><br />Last on the list for the weekend - stocking the firewood racks around the place...there are several. We try to do this ahead of time so that when the first snow sneaks around the corner, we are set and ready.<br /><br />Just one of the many beautiful views from the ranch.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-guZL2Mtu8Lg/VfWi5Oap32I/AAAAAAAAA88/Z0WbMCATPpY/s1600/sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-guZL2Mtu8Lg/VfWi5Oap32I/AAAAAAAAA88/Z0WbMCATPpY/s320/sunset.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It has been a very eventful summer and there are lots of stories to share and things to talk about. I will be blogging more often and updating you all on our path! Check the new recipe that I made at midnight Friday night! Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-80929292110638535202015-05-18T08:44:00.000-05:002015-05-18T08:44:00.758-05:00Rain is a Good ThingRain is a good thing, rain makes corn and corn makes whiskey. But, rain makes people eating mosquitoes too!<br /><br />We have been very blessed with several inches of rain over the last couple of weeks. While we need a break to dry up, every time it rains we begin to increase our estimated hay production!<br /><br />Rotation is the key to our operation. We move and sort cattle more often than not. We might see a few heifers that need a little more feed than the older cows while producing milk, or might have a heifer springing, or showing signs that she will calve soon.<br /><br />All of our pastures are saturated. We took a quick trip out by four wheeler to check a set and here are a few pictures.<br /><br />Getting a little deep!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rzit-YLTi7I/VVnotCi-4II/AAAAAAAAA04/pkKPUyD39CQ/s1600/IMG_20150516_204540887.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rzit-YLTi7I/VVnotCi-4II/AAAAAAAAA04/pkKPUyD39CQ/s320/IMG_20150516_204540887.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />Who knew you could make wake in a Playa lake! Lake Williams continues to rise.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-whvZG2Nf89Y/VVno1-8Bt6I/AAAAAAAAA1I/iNH40GP-mqs/s1600/IMG_20150516_204522105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-whvZG2Nf89Y/VVno1-8Bt6I/AAAAAAAAA1I/iNH40GP-mqs/s320/IMG_20150516_204522105.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />In the far distance of the picture below is the herd we checked on. Our calves are learning how to swim. We think this is swamp ranching!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jhtWB0LjgTo/VVno3T7TvGI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/ltIEMY0ib7k/s1600/IMG_20150516_204532600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jhtWB0LjgTo/VVno3T7TvGI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/ltIEMY0ib7k/s320/IMG_20150516_204532600.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />And a picture from last week of penning a heifer that calved. Free spa quality mudbath!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kA4QIzKoiCk/VVno6UTKfHI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/rSdUmg-36iw/s1600/IMG_20150511_193226652_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kA4QIzKoiCk/VVno6UTKfHI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/rSdUmg-36iw/s320/IMG_20150511_193226652_HDR.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />There are pros and cons to this much rain. Number one con is the swarms of mosquitoes that have already formed! Much more rain in the forecast to come in the extended forecast. At least we are getting a break from mowing until it dries up.Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-34075462429128330582015-04-14T22:19:00.000-05:002015-04-14T22:19:23.112-05:00Part 1 - What Keeps me OrganizedI recently saw a Pinterest link for a diy family planner. After trying three other calendar systems this year, I resorted to a three ring binder and have made my own planner. Before I share that, and since this binder came first, I want to introduce my house binder.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3163R1tChJc/VS3WkipPBtI/AAAAAAAAAyY/79cEwQg5UOI/s1600/20150414_214250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3163R1tChJc/VS3WkipPBtI/AAAAAAAAAyY/79cEwQg5UOI/s1600/20150414_214250.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div><br />This is part one of how I stay organized. Many years ago I decided the traditional recipe card method was not for me. I typed recipes, cut out and taped others and added them to this binder. I call it my house binder, bevause it is not just a recipe book.<br /><br />It is a place to store ideas. Maybe I tore out a quilt from a picture in a magazine that we would love to have made. Secretly I want to make it myself. There may also be a necklace design or two, and maybe a book title. In a moment of weakness this week I was searching for beef crockpot recipes. Once I consulted the binder, I found plenty that I had cut out already. I also love to use and weekly menu and grocery list.<br /><br />We each have a different way of staying organized, no one system works for everyone, and it may take years to perfect.<br /><br />Head on over to the Good Eats page and I will tell you what was in the crockpot today.Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-659936805476949932015-04-10T11:01:00.000-05:002015-04-10T11:01:21.884-05:00Travelling without Kids or CowsWhat an exciting day, we are travelling without kids or cows, just Ryan and me. It feels so odd. I think I left a suitcase full of things at home. My purse is twice as empty too. Things are missing....like the snack basket, trash can for car sickness and 50 cords powering every device to keep the kids entertained.<br /><br />I thought it would be fun to have Ryan's input as we go down the highway. He is very excited that I am blogging again so that our distant family and friends can stay updated. He also reminded me that while we have come a long way on building things, there are a lot of future projects. With warmer weather here we will be finishing concrete work on our front drive, a feeder pen with fence work and begin the baby steps to a barn for the working facility and show cattle. We are mid way through calving season and have several good ones that we will keep and some that will find new homes!<br /><br />And what a difference a year makes...we have grass coming up and if we ever get any rain we might get to mow.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9riyf8ViOQ/VSfzdO4yU_I/AAAAAAAAAx0/TLsMPqoFe6g/s1600/20150409_183134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9riyf8ViOQ/VSfzdO4yU_I/AAAAAAAAAx0/TLsMPqoFe6g/s1600/20150409_183134.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div><br />Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-89863453333420020952015-04-09T14:40:00.001-05:002015-04-09T14:40:44.427-05:00Deep Thinking<br />It has come time for a serious update. We are no longer the little house or red barn on the horizon. We've become a growing operation and built a house. I've updated about us and made a few changes to become passionate about blogging again. <br /><br /><br />Many days we burn the midnight oil in ranch projects, feeding, homework, laundry&nbsp;and playing catchup, but the stories and daily trials continue. I have a lot of pictures and stories that I intend to share about our life, some good eats or deep thinking. <br /><br /><br />Speaking of deep thinking or breathing, I think they go hand in hand. Several weeks ago I travelled to my home outside of Bryan, TX, for a family wedding shower. While there I planned to visit a school friend of mine who operates her own yoga studio: Om Grown Yoga and Tea Bar. My first thought was, hey, I'm in pretty good shape&nbsp;and I've done a little piyo, surely I can handle this. Then fear set in of what do I wear. I'm pretty sure these people won't appreciate my usual gym attire in the middle of the day. The few and far between trips to the gym in the wee morning consist of cloths that double as appropriate to feed in. I purchased real yoga capris if that's what you call them just for this visit. And then I even got seen in public before and after. Talk about stepping out of my comfort zone. I prepared for this day for weeks. <br /><br /><br />It started with a hair appointment to find a style for a future wedding, then to yoga where I'd meet the newest addition to our family for some girl time. What a great way to spend some quiet time together, trying not to laugh at each other or ourselves. Let's just say Lexi is an amazing yoga instructor. The class was a challenge, encouraged deep breathing and let me take a break from the crazy world we live in. I instantly fell in love with yoga. We then enjoyed brunch in downtown with a Texas Mimosa, Lone Star Beer always reminds me of my daddy.<br /><br /><br />Last event for that day was ice skating with Tana. I wasted a few dollars for skates on myself, and after going half way in the rink with two large road cones and then back to the end, I was done. Between yoga and figuring out I'm too old to want to fall, it was much more exciting to watch Tana meet new friends and gain a lot of confidence on the ice. This one day was unlike any other I've had and provided a refreshing, renewing feeling that will hold me over for a while. Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-86011111822734861772014-03-13T10:33:00.001-05:002014-03-13T10:33:35.226-05:00Bunkhouse Before & After<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">3/13/14</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">There is almost no need for words on this post. The 900 square foot bunkhouse served its purpose, moved us to our land, and raised our children for a five years. The time came to build a house and we moved out. Here it is just before repainting.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2jymmuKZk4E/UyHNYCWxpYI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/cq1DtVgekug/s1600/bunkhouse+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2jymmuKZk4E/UyHNYCWxpYI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/cq1DtVgekug/s1600/bunkhouse+before.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">And here it is now! Same cabinets, except we branded the corner one, see the brand in the oven. The oven got a new coat of paint and the walls a new color. It looks amazing.</span> </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qo4E9FHRFkk/UyHNcEsyY3I/AAAAAAAAAmY/MFcTdHlKoyE/s1600/bunhouse+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qo4E9FHRFkk/UyHNcEsyY3I/AAAAAAAAAmY/MFcTdHlKoyE/s1600/bunhouse+after.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">We have a few more small projects left, but our first guests (family) arrive today. It smells brand new and actually shines! For those of you who know how much I love to cook - can you believe I did it all on that half-size stove and four foot of countertop! </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">I will be taking more pictures of the bunkhouse soon. It is two bedroom (one with a queen and one with a twin size trundle bed), with plenty of space to add a blow up mattress and a 3/4bath. So for anyone that plans on passing through Perryton, contact me for more information!</span><br /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Check out a few of the other pages today too!</span>Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-88703675691332493062014-03-11T15:02:00.000-05:002014-03-11T15:02:00.314-05:00Brand in the Oven<span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are mid-way through&nbsp; remodel project of our bunkhouse. All that we lack is the bathroom and painting one bedroom. As Ryan says, he had to move me out of the bunkhouse for it to be so clean. I think painting in general makes a room feel clean. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I chose the colors of the bunkhouse while 5-6 months pregnant, and I can't say they were all great. We've gone back to neutral colors and will be collecting decoration items again. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So why is the bran in the oven? I can't tell yet, but it was too priceless. While working on a project in the kitchen we needed our branding iron, so the oven seemed like the safest place to keep it. I'll update you all tomorrow on the before and after of the kitchen! </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FWM5i-5nElA/Ux9rfD6kRAI/AAAAAAAAAlg/DnD2qbiSbKk/s1600/brand+in+the+oven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FWM5i-5nElA/Ux9rfD6kRAI/AAAAAAAAAlg/DnD2qbiSbKk/s1600/brand+in+the+oven.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Please excuse the rather dirty oven - that is one place that didn't get cleaned very often but was well used. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Updating some of the other pages as well!</span>Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-80234367979980274282014-03-06T11:11:00.001-06:002014-03-06T11:11:15.399-06:00Strong Enough to Live It<span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">This morning I found a quote on facebook:</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: &quot;Courier New&quot;, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">You were given this life because you are strong enough to live it.</span> </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">I reminded me that on days that get tough, I am strong enough to handle the. Some of you are not strong enough to live my life, and I am not strong enough to live yours. We each have our own strengths. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Check out the food page and find out how I get my kids an extra serving of oatmeal! </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">And guess what - calving season begins on the 16th, and the cows are beginning to show signs. We'll have a variety of breeds and cattle available by the fall. I may need to purchase a few extra halters because I'm expecting some killer looking calves!</span>Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-875419542643741022014-02-25T14:51:00.002-06:002014-02-25T14:51:25.176-06:00A Favorite Memory - Wild Hogs02/25/14<br /><br />Several days ago I received this photo from my dad. I knew it was one of his traps, but the animal standing in the corner looked like a monster, a bear, what could it be. It was a wild hog. This brought back several of my favorite memories of hog hunting with my dad. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-COCQvTrfl8c/Uw0CM5KyMAI/AAAAAAAAAko/MBr6lgKMQVg/s1600/Hog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-COCQvTrfl8c/Uw0CM5KyMAI/AAAAAAAAAko/MBr6lgKMQVg/s1600/Hog.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div><br />There are too many stories to tell, some of them successful, some times we went home with nothing and some times there were stories that would scare my mom!<br /><br />First story - on a perfect moonlit night we decided to take my cousin, Andy, hog hunting with us. We dropped him in a pasture to sit in the cattle feeder to wait for hogs. We also left the vehicle. Dad and&nbsp;I walked to another pasture where we found a herd of pigs rooting in the pasture. After a couple of shots, climbing a fence post and returning to the vehicle, we found Andy inside it. Not sure if he didn't see anything or we scared him!<br /><br />One evening in a brushy pasture as we stood on a tank dam, we encountered a good size hog and several smaller ones. As it was getting dark dad made a plan on which one to shoot and what to do next. The what to do next was for me to run and climb the tree behind us! He shot the hog and then had a hard time getting me off the tree. Not only was I shaking but I had a few thorns in me as well.<br /><br />There was a time when my dad was working out of town and the dogs would not come home. We could hear the barking in the woods. My mom and I loaded into the truck and drove in the woods. We called the dogs, Patty and Pudden, until they came out of the woods. The only thing was, they weren't alone! Theses non-hunting dogs had found a hog and decided to herd it to us. When my dad returned home we got the hog. That was some tasty meat!<br /><br />Last one but a different animal. We often went coyote hunting as well, more to enjoy getting near them, hear the howl and watch them, than to shoot them. Our dogs were great friends with the coyotes and loved to play with them. As we sat in a small brush pile the dogs would slowly bring the coyotes in closer and closer. I was sitting on the ground leaned up against a tree while my dad listened to see where our dogs were. In no time I was face to face with a coyote. While it felt like he was literally inches from my nose, he was probably a few feet away. It all happened so fast. The dogs came running to us and the coyote followed! <br /><br />We had many late night and evening trips in the woods and to different pastures looking for all sorts of animals! From turtles in the tanks to coyotes and hogs (I was never quiet enough to deer hunt), there was even a hog so big it took the tractor to load and filled the bed of the truck. Now I live in the Panhandle where there are no trees, no tanks and different kinds of animals. We sure enjoy the pheasant though!<br /><br />I've updated a few other pages as well!Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-87040096572282713592014-02-24T14:59:00.003-06:002014-02-24T14:59:46.394-06:00New House and New ProjectsHonestly - it has been a long time since I've been able to share. So much has happened around the ranch. We moved from the 920 sq ft bunkhouse to our new house:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gKJkoskiTPI/UwuyjlBgwYI/AAAAAAAAAjw/hpv-UI4Q-Dk/s1600/House+Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gKJkoskiTPI/UwuyjlBgwYI/AAAAAAAAAjw/hpv-UI4Q-Dk/s1600/House+Front.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Yes the house is finished, well 99.8 percent, we have a few more small projects to do and plant grass! We are truly enjoying more space and not all sharing a tiny bathroom. I love spending time in the kitchen and having Tana at the counter. She wants to learn to cook and actually made a pie this weekend with the help of me opening the can of and using the mixer!<br /><br />We truly feel like we have opened a new book to our lives. New book, new beginning and it comes with both it's challenges and rewards. Since the house is finished we have moved on to other projects. More fence work, painting the bunkhouse and getting it ready for available lodging, and tending to the herd, which should begin to calve in March. Not that we aren't always excited about our children, but looking forward to calving season is exciting. We bought a bull this year and can't wait to see what his offspring turns out like. Plus we bought several straws of semen and have a great breeding plan for this year. <br /><br />I plan to post more often and also share some of our favorite things about the house, and some things we would do differently, where the inspiration came from and that it is our mini-museum of artwork, collectibles and unique decorations! Also watch as we finish the outside and double our garden size this year!<br /><br />I'm also posting on several other pages here, so look around, pay attention and keep checking as there are lots of plans and projects in our near future!Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-42237032034815589882013-07-08T14:28:00.004-05:002013-07-08T14:28:36.676-05:00Travelling is Priceless<span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">When you make a trip, plan a big event, etc sometimes cost does not matter. We like to be on a budget even when we travel but our latest trip was out of the ordinary. Must I mention that lately we have not travelled well as a family, from me being sick to blowouts on trailers, etc.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">The last trip:</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">4.5 tanks of diesel - $$$</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Landscape rock that landed on the windshield that will have to be replaced&nbsp;- $$</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Fancy hotel and overpriced steak dinner - $$</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Purchasing what we left at home - $$</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Finally arriving at our destination to enjoy family, friends, food and am amazing fireworks display - Priceless</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">and...</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Getting a stop for diesel, lunch and bathroom breaks with the kids down to 14 minutes - Priceless</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Our travels may be getting better. By the end of summer we're going to be pros at travelling across the state and all the others!</span><br />Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-34638404816183406262013-06-19T10:31:00.002-05:002013-06-19T10:31:34.586-05:00Baxter Black - About Woman's Work<span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">I recently read this article in a magazine we receive, It's Woman's Work by Baxter Black. Here are a few sentences that I a really enjoyed.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><em><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">To the banker, loan officer, census taker and USDA, it is considered to be managed by the man. But…how many times have you heard some rancher or farmer introduce his wife as, “…this is my wife, she does the books.” I do it myself! I can’t tell you what my electric bill is, or if the plates on my trucks are up to date, how much money we have in the bank, who insures the shop, how I’m deducting the 4-wheeler, who we still owe money to, if our kids are coming home for Thanksgiving or when I last had a dental appointment. But she can, so I don’t worry.</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">I have more important things to do; fix the brakes on the one-ton, change the hot-wire around the house lot, grade the gravel driveway, shoe the horses, find the missing heifer, fix the water line to the middle drinkers, get the waterer ready for winter, repair the alley gate in the corral, catch Cattlemen to Cattlemen on RFD-TV (I consider it continuing education) and find a 5/16 nut for the float arm. I’m on the job doin’ Man’s Work.</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">I remember being so busy one time that I asked my wife if we could afford a hired man. She said, “What are you talkin’ about? I’ve already got a good one!”</span></em><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">I can relate to these statements and while so much of our daily lives are truly a teamwork effort there are many things that I do and then some that Ryan does separately. </span>Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-12433092363796866162013-06-13T12:45:00.004-05:002013-06-13T12:45:58.308-05:00Been a While<span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">It has been too long since I've posted and there's no place to start on catching you up! Between wind and hail storms, to thinking we needed to seek shelter, to losing dog kennels that caused more damage, to an oil well too close to the house, to it being summer already...life and this year is going by way too fast!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">I cannot commit at this point how often I will be back on here, but I will guarantee that in the near future I'll be back with more recipes, stories and updates. We've been grilling often and of course have our summer swimming pool (stock tank) filled!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">For today though, here is the message I found in my fortune cookie today at lunch:</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"><em><strong>Accept no other definition of your life, accept only your own.</strong></em> </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">I thought this was very moving and a good reminder, then my loving husband tells me that I already do this every day. Not sure that he meant it as a compliment but that's the way I'll take it. You should be the only person that defines your life!</span>Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-10796526400618357002013-02-04T14:46:00.001-06:002013-02-04T14:46:50.040-06:00Mondays Can Happen Every DayWith our lives changing a bit in 2013 between work, family and priorities, I've come to realize every day can be a Monday. I say this meaning that Mondays are not always bad. In some lines of business Monday can be busier than the rest of the week. In families Monday may mean getting back on schedule with a few hiccups. So as we are near the end of this Monday, look forward to tomorrow, but don't be disappointed if tomorrow isn't an easy day!<br /><br />Find a quick, easy, family favorite recipe on the food page!Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-74527319804224606192012-12-11T09:04:00.002-06:002012-12-11T09:04:13.338-06:00Barn AttireThis post is not about what is appropriate to wear to the barn - long pants, long sleeve shirt, boots, coat, gloves, etc. Although when other people are at our place or we're working a large load of calves, I'm dressed accordingly. <br /><br />Tana can often be found in dress up shoes, a princess dress, cowboy boots, coat, hat, gloves, flip flops, whatever, except when it's something series. Besides, most of the time she plays in the shade or with the cats while we work. <br /><br />There is absolutely no telling what I might wear to the barn, but let's take last night for instance. After a day at work, and knowing Ryan wouldn't be home till late, it was up to Tana and I to get all the chores done in a short amount of daylight. She was already in jeans, shoes and a heavy coat. I was in a dress, leggings, tall heeled boots and a jacket. The cotton dress I was in washes well so I wasn't scared, plus the leggings were warm. I switched to handmade boots, a heavier coat and a scarf. Out the door we went. <br /><br />I'm sure each pen of calves, cows and horses we fed and broke ice in were thrilled to see me dressed up. The one thing I love more than any about raising livestock is they do not care what you look like, smell like or what you say as long as you feed them. We ended the evening checking a hot fence, looking for a low wire, and Tana enjoyed helping me drive!<br /><br />Tonight will be round two of getting everything done in a short amount of time, and if that means I feed in heels, so be it!Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-62671833416598209312012-12-07T14:52:00.001-06:002012-12-07T14:52:08.566-06:00What do Friday's Mean?Fridays are the beginning to our only extended time on the place. Usually we're putting out hay, feeding, working with show heifers, counting cats to make sure the dogs have left them alone, catching up on laundry, doing dishes, preparing meals for the next week, making beds, stringing beads, playing with barbies, watching the kids play tackle football, and cooking out to name a few! With the hustle and bustle of the work week our real work begins on Friday evenings. Projects that can't be done in a few hours are saved and there is usually a list of things to get accomplished. Especially this weekend with a little cooler weather rolling in, we'll make sure everything is hayed and fed accordingly. <br /><br />Fridays also mean we get to stay up late and not have to put makeup on the next day. Instead of being lazy I think it gives my skin a break! Or that's my excuse! This Friday will include holiday preparations as well, sorting stocking stuffers, presents to be wrapped and making sure Tana has redecorated the Christmas trees again by switching ornaments between the big tree and the kids tree! I've recently figured out why I'm so excited for Fridays, is because all of the above are right around the corner. We've been feeding by headlights lately and that wears on a person and the family when chores can't be accomplished in the daylight. Last night dinner was in the over and Tana and I were filling water, Ryan fed the cows, we fed the barn, Tate finished a story for school. Next we ate, showered and only have a few minutes of family time. <br /><br />Fridays are so important because they mean family time for the weekend! Here's to an early New Year's Resolution of having more family time! Check out my post on the family page about being frugal!Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-765347336981822122.post-22288969637596461932012-11-30T15:32:00.003-06:002012-11-30T15:32:21.769-06:00The Future<span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Stop acting as if life is a rehearsal. Live this day as if it were your last. The past is over and gone. The future is not guaranteed.&nbsp;- Wayne Dyer</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Not only have we been discussing our own future a lot, many of those who surround us have as well. Nothing is a guarantee and you never know what the next day may hold. You may know that an event will happen to change your future and you must prepare for that day and not let it take you by surprise. On the same note, I need to learn to be more flexible with each coming day that changes will happen, decisions will be made and your future can always change. </span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">This is one of my favorite quotes:</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"><img alt="Something to think about!" class="PinImageImg" data-componenttype="MODAL_PIN" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/183381016046510079_Nc7cFaXU_b.jpg" style="height: 283px;" /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">You never know where life may take you and while we all try to prepare as best we can for our future, sometimes things happen and you must make a different path. This applies to all aspects of our own personal lives, work, children, projects, livestock, depending on the rain, etc. The future is never certain.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, sans-serif;">Always keep your eyes open and heads up, then you'll be prepared and open to whatever may come, and it might be better than the original dream you had!</span>Katy Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048721926320615066noreply@blogger.com0